Narrow win for Arran in bad-tempered match
Despite the decent forecast on Sunday the heavens opened upon Ormidale Park but the weather could not dampen the spirit of the Arran players who are now on an eight-match unbeaten run.
Unfortunately the foul weather matched the mood of some of the opposition players which resulted in numerous red cards, scuffles and an upcoming disciplinary hearing.
Grant Adamson was rewarded with a start after his late winner last week and Archie McNicol made a comeback after a twomatch absence. It was Adamson who was involved in the lead up to the first goal as he was felled by the Vics goalkeeper and McNicol dispatched the resulting penalty in fine style at the Knowe Road end of the field.
A typical mazy run saw Johnny Sloss nearly double the lead shortly after but the Vics, who had already drawn and defeated Arran previously, played their way into the game.
A strong midfield line up caused Arran problems – and resulted in a change of tactics from manager Alan Murray – after Vics found a first-half equaliser with a low drive past Stephen Judge.
The second half saw little between the teams with Vics forcing the best chances but in-form keeper Stephen Judge was again showing safe hands in the muddy Arran goal.
The game changed around the 70th minute when Adam McNicol and a Vics player came head to head. The Irvine player displayed an aggressive motion towards McNicol and was shown a red card by referee Ryan Bowie. It was a double whammy for Irvine Victoria as the resulting free kick from Sloss saw Donald Park rise well and flick the ball past the keeper, much to the delight of players and fans who again turned out in good numbers.
Sadly instead of trying to get back into the game some of the away team’s players lost their discipline and two unfortunate tackles on Sloss – who had started to see the ball more on the left wing – saw Vics go down to eight men with only seconds left. Upon the final whistle many of the Irvine Victoria’s players and management apologised for a few of their players letting their club down with their behaviour.
Sadly a disciplinary visit to Hampden park will now be looming for them as these un-savoury incidents were caught on video.
An important three points were gained for the depleted Arran team who only had one fit substitute on the bench as the bruising games are taking their toll on players who are carrying a great deal of persistent injuries.
Arran AFC thanked Chris Parks and Ellie from Little Rock for purchasing the new away strips which were on display last Sunday and also Stuart Brodie for sponsoring the match ball.
In other news the club have signed Sean Higgins from a Glasgow amateur club and also their youngest recruit, Mak Russell, who will both help to bolster the club as they build for the future.
Tomorrow (Sunday) the Arran lads travel to Kilwinning Academy to play Irvine Celtic SC who are also mounting a title challenge. Kick off is 1pm and anyone wishing to travel on the team bus should contact Marc Head via Facebook.